In chapters five and six of Red Badge of Courage, Henry had his first battle since joining the army. His fear of battle first seemed nonexistent until he seen many of his peers retreat. What made him have a change of heart? Why was he not scared from the beginning? In the beginning of the battle, everyone was ready for war and stood in unison. Henry felt confident fighting with the men during the first part of the battle because of this. During the second battle, Henry seen most of his peers flee which gave him benefit of the doubt that they would win. So as a reflex, Henry fled too.
“Here they come!” says a regiment. This suddenly alerted the soldiers to be ready for anything. Everyone grabbed their clips and equipment and stood ready for